Sergio Gomez has opened up on the lasting impact of La Masia while also making a bold prediction about Lamine Yamal’s future at Barcelona.
Now plying his trade with Real Sociedad, Gomez has evolved into a dependable left-back: a role that contrasts sharply with his attacking beginnings in Barcelona’s youth system.
However, as the journey unfolded, his positional shift became a natural adaptation rather than a planned transition.
“The truth is that it’s a position I’ve gradually adapted to over the years,” he said.
“At Barca, I played as a winger on both flanks or as an attacking midfielder. I even played as a false nine, but never as a full-back.”
Despite leaving Barcelona in 2018 for Borussia Dortmund, Gomez still identifies strongly with the club that shaped his early career.
La Masia remains the foundation of his development, a system he credits for launching him into top-level football.
“Absolutely. I spent eight years there, from the under-12s right up to Barca B. I’ll always be grateful to Barca.
“I’m grateful to all the clubs I’ve played for, but it was Barca that gave me the chance to develop and make the leap to the top flight.
“In Barca’s youth system, the coach who had the biggest impact on me was Franc Artiga.”
Looking ahead, Gomez played down any immediate thoughts of a return to Barcelona, instead focusing on maintaining momentum with Real Sociedad, where he continues to grow and contribute consistently.
“I’m quite happy at Real Sociedad, and until they call you, you don’t think about it. To be honest, I haven’t given it a thought.
“Barca is the club that has given me everything to get where I am now.
“I’m incredibly grateful for all those years and for how they treated me, but as I said before, until they call you, you don’t even think about what you’d say if they did.
“I’m very happy at Real Sociedad and for the opportunities they’re giving me.”
Turning attention to the next generation, Gomez did not hold back in his praise for rising star Lamine Yamal.
Having faced him in league action and observed him closely at international level, he believes the youngster has all the tools to reach the very top.
“I’ve had to face him on several occasions this season. Lamine is really showing what he’s made of.
“I was in the squad with him when I was called up to the senior Spanish national team and he really impressed me in training. I’d seen him in matches, but watching him train is amazing.
“He’s got fifteen or more years left in his career at Barca; he’s bound to succeed and, if he puts his mind to it, he’ll go as far as he wants,” he concluded.
As the football cycle continues, Gomez’s journey highlights La Masia’s enduring influence, while his endorsement of Yamal signals that Barcelona’s future remains in capable hands.
Toosin is a dedicated sports writer with a strong background in crafting engaging and insightful content. With experience at Goal, he has developed a sharp editorial sense and a refined storytelling approach that brings depth and perspective to sports journalism. His passion for the game goes beyond the headlines, as he captures both the excitement of the sport and the compelling human narratives behind each event. Toosin’s work resonates with a broad and diverse audience, making global sports stories accessible, relatable, and impactful.
